Community Corner

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Ceremony

Westport Domestic Violence Task Force chair Elizabeth Juviler announced that October will be proclaimed as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Westport by First Selectman Gordon F. Joseloff on Oct. 14, at 9:45 a.m. on the front steps of Town Hall.

A brief ceremony will take place, followed by refreshments in the Town Hall lobby.  The public is invited to attend. 

Following the proclamation, members of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force and the Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) will be at a table at the Farmers Market, Imperial Avenue, with literature and videos.

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Domestic violence is a serious crime that affects people of all races, ages, gender and income levels.  It affects more than four million American each year.  One in three Americans has witnessed an incident of domestic violence.

"Early in the morning on Thursday, Oct. 14, don't be surprised to see Westport police officers at the train stations handing out informational cards on domestic violence to commuters," said Juviler. 

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You may also notice purple ribbons tied to trees at Town Hall, and on posts on Main Street and around town.  The ribbons will be hung by members of the Westport Young Woman's League and the Westport Woman's Club, and signify the amount of reported domestic violence incidents in Westport for 2009.  This is part of a coordinated community effort to put a stop to domestic violence.

Domestic violence awareness month provides an excellent opportunity for citizens to learn more about preventing domestic violence and to show support for the numerous organizations who provide critical advocacy, services and assistance to victims.

Throughout the month, DVCC will be speaking at various Westport organizations continuing to education and raise awareness.

"It is the aim during Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Westport to urge citizens to work together to eliminate domestic violence in our community," said Juviler.


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